System and method for interlocking sections of athletic and/or protective surface mats

Abstract

First and second mat sections are interlocked using a resilient closure strip. A layer of reinforced vinyl scrim is situated on the surface of each mat section. The closure includes two closure members each having an interengaging portion and a connecting portion. The connecting portion of one closure member is mounted on one mat section with the interengaging portion in a given orientation. The connecting portion of the other closure member is mounted on the other mat section with the interengaging portion thereof in an orientation opposite to that of the first interengaging portion with at least a portion thereof extending beyond the mat surface such that the interengaging portions align and can be interengaged by a downward force when the mat sections are situated in side-by-side relation. A coating of poly-vinyl paint is situated over each of the closure members and the reinforced vinyl scrim layer.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]This invention relates to athletic and / or protective surface mats for participating in various activities including wrestling, martial arts, tumbling and cheerleading, which may take the form of wrestling mats, training mats, tumbling mats and carpet, and more particularly, a system and method of interlocking sections of such mats.[0003]2. Description of Prior Art Including Information Disclosed Under 37 CFR 1.97 and 1.98[0004]Participants in athletic activities use mats for protection. If the mat is provided in multiple sections, as it often is for easy storage and shipping, the sections need to be connected together before use. The standard connecting devices used for this purpose have been tape and hook and loop fastener strips (i.e. Velcro®).[0005]However, tape is expensive and must be replaced regularly. Hook and loop strips are not easy to clean, do not lay flat and form an abrasive edge along the sides of the mat...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The solution provides a secure, easy-to-clean, and cost-effective interlocking system that prevents liquids and particulates from entering between mat sections, reducing stress on the mat surface and facilitating quick connection and disconnection.

Problems solved by technology

However, tape is expensive and must be replaced regularly.

Hook and loop strips are not easy to clean, do not lay flat and form an abrasive edge along the sides of the mat sections which the hook and loop strips attach together.

Further, connecting and disconnecting both tape and hook and loop strips cause stress on the mat surface.

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